Grandma’s Holiday Candy Recipes

Grandma’s Holiday Candy Recipes : Timeless Classics for Festive Cheer

The holidays are a time for warmth, joy, and, of course, delectable treats! These classic candy recipes from Grandma’s kitchen are perfect for sharing with family and friends. From rich peanut brittle to creamy fudge and chocolate-covered cherries, these recipes are sure to evoke nostalgia while satisfying your sweet tooth. They also feature ingredients and methods that align perfectly with a healthy lifestyle in moderation, making them great options for those focused on balanced nutrition and festive indulgence.

1. Old-Fashioned Peanut Brittle

This timeless treat combines crunch and sweetness, making it a perfect holiday favorite.

Ingredients

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 cup corn syrup
• ½ cup water
• 2 cups raw peanuts
• 2 sticks unsalted butter
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. Cook the Mixture: In a heavy pot, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir occasionally over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves.
3. Add Peanuts: Stir in the peanuts and cook until a candy thermometer reads 300°F (hard-crack stage).
4. Incorporate Flavorings: Remove from heat and quickly stir in the vanilla, salt, butter, and baking soda. The mixture will foam slightly.
5. Spread and Cool: Pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spreading it evenly. Let it cool completely before breaking into pieces.

2. Grandma’s Creamy Fudge

Rich, creamy, and loaded with chocolatey goodness, this fudge is a holiday must-have.

Ingredients

• 3 cups granulated sugar
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• 1 jar (7 oz) marshmallow cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Line an 8x8-inch pan with buttered foil.
2. Cook the Base: In a heavy pot, combine sugar, butter, and evaporated milk. Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for 5 minutes.
3. Add Chocolate and Marshmallow: Remove from heat and stir in chocolate chips, marshmallow cream, vanilla, and nuts until smooth.
4. Set the Fudge: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and let it cool completely before cutting into squares.

3. Chocolate-Covered Cherries

These decadent treats are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your holiday candy spread.

Ingredients

• 1 jar maraschino cherries with stems, drained
• 3 tbsp softened butter
• 1 tbsp corn syrup
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 8 oz dark or semi-sweet chocolate, melted

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: Mix butter, corn syrup, and powdered sugar to form a pliable dough.
2. Wrap the Cherries: Cover each cherry with a small piece of dough, ensuring it’s fully enclosed.
3. Dip in Chocolate: Dip the cherries in melted chocolate and place them on wax paper.
4. Set: Let the candies sit for 1–2 days to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Peppermint Bark

This festive candy is a holiday staple, combining layers of chocolate with a refreshing peppermint crunch.

Ingredients

• 12 oz white chocolate, chopped
• 12 oz dark or semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• ½ tsp peppermint extract
• ½ cup crushed peppermint candy

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Melt the Dark Chocolate: Use a double boiler or microwave to melt the dark chocolate. Spread it evenly on the prepared sheet and refrigerate until firm.
3. Add the White Chocolate Layer: Melt the white chocolate, mix in the peppermint extract, and spread it over the dark chocolate layer.
4. Top with Peppermint Candy: Sprinkle crushed peppermint on top and press lightly. Refrigerate until firm, then break into pieces.

5. Divinity Candy

This classic confection is light, airy, and delightfully sweet.

Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup light corn syrup
• ½ cup water
• 2 large egg whites
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Syrup: Combine sugar, corn syrup, and water in a pot. Heat over medium-low until a candy thermometer reads 250°F (hard-ball stage).
2. Beat Egg Whites: In a stand mixer, beat egg whites to stiff peaks.
3. Combine: Slowly pour the hot syrup into the egg whites while beating continuously. Beat until thick and holds its shape.
4. Add Nuts: Stir in nuts if desired. Drop spoonfuls onto wax paper and let set.

6. Classic Toffee

Crunchy, buttery, and coated in chocolate, toffee is a timeless treat for any holiday occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ½ cup chopped nuts

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pan: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cook the Toffee: In a heavy pot, combine butter, sugar, and salt. Stir over medium-low heat until it reaches 300°F.
3. Spread and Top: Pour the mixture onto the prepared sheet. Sprinkle with chocolate chips, let melt, and spread evenly. Add nuts on top if desired.
4. Cool: Allow to cool completely before breaking into pieces.

Final Thoughts

These holiday candy recipes are as delightful to make as they are to eat. Whether you’re recreating childhood memories or starting new traditions, these sweet treats offer something for everyone. Plus, they make excellent gifts or additions to a festive dessert table. For those focused on health, remember to enjoy these indulgences in moderation—they’re worth every bite!